Our History

Scholl’s History

Out of a concern for individuals faced with difficult bioethical decisions, in 1986 Sister Paula Vandegaer, SSS, LCSW, brought together a group of professionals in medicine, law, psychology, and religion.

Responding to the complexities of these issues, they formed the Scholl Institute of Bioethics dedicated to research, service, and education.

About Our Name

We chose the name of our organization to honor the memory of Hans and Sophie Scholl, a brother and sister, who were members of the White Rose, a group of Munich University students who resisted the policies of the Third Reich, including the “mercy” killings of disabled and mentally ill persons in Nazi Germany. Read more…

How Scholl Assists People

Many of you will have to make decisions about life issues affecting you and those dear to you. Each of us needs to make the best decision when a human life is involved. The Scholl Institute of Bioethics delineates principles to assist in making choices about life and death, with particular concern for the protection of the weak and defenseless persons who cannot speak for themselves.

Scholl’s Educational Services

As a research center, the Scholl Institute of Bioethics provides in-depth analysis of current bioethical questions. It prepares articles for a Quarterly Bioethical Review on topics of interest. In addition, it offers a speaker’s bureau, provides educational materials, gives a yearly conference, and conducts workshops and seminars. Scholl is also providing new outreach via the Web, and looks to be conducting Webinars in the near future. For those seeking additional help on difficult personal bioethical issues, Contact Us.